Squirrel of Speedwell Farms by Liza Martini

Today's read heads into the animal fiction direction. Now, I'm not sure if it will lean more into the chapter book, sweet animal style...or exactly how the betrayal and secrets will work in. The cover is giving me a light-hearted atmosphere and reminds a bit of clue finding adventure. I could be wrong. The read has been getting very good reviews and, obviously, was nominated for a couple of prizes. So, I'm more than curious to see what this one is about.

Ready to dive into the realm of squirrels? I know I am!

SQUIRREL OF SPEEDWELL FARMS

by Liza Martini

Archway Publishing

Middle Grade Animal Fantasy

190 pages

ages 8 to 12

A captivating woodland tale explores hope and survival as a young squirrel must uncover the truth behind mysterious disappearances of clan members. Facing betrayal, danger and heartbreaking secrets, he embarks on a daring rescue mission that will test his courage and loyalty.

This award-winning story blends adventure, humor, and heartfelt storytelling in an unforgettable animal fantasy that captures the wonder of childhood while exploring themes of loyalty, family, and perseverance.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON    /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Mystery, community goodness, tension, and courage mix with a young hero as he learns how complicated the world around him can be.

Chister's dad has been gone for awhile and is doing something very important and, perhaps, dangerous, but everybody involved is keeping it hush-hush. He only knows that squirrels have been disappearing, leaving peanut shells behind. There are whispers of a growing danger, too, which means he always needs to stay alert and protect his family since his dad can't. Since Chister can't stand to sit around and not know what's happening, he decides to figure it out for himself. The truth might be more complicated and dangerous than he suspected.

This book reminds a bit of Watership Down and Redwall, but instead of growing as dark as these animal tales, it takes a lighter twist toward the end to bring it more into a Wind in the Willows direction. In other words, it holds adventure, mystery, tension, secrets, and still remains perfectly fine for more sensitive readers and keeps a hug on wholesome goodness. I can see homeschoolers wanting to take a peek at this one, too.

That said, Chister is a lively, curious squirrel, who loves his family and friends. He isn't always as well-behaved as his mother would like, but he's ready to step-up when others might shy away. But then, this entire community of animals holds tons of warmth and personality. And secrets...and betrayal. The animal community resides interwoven with and hidden from the human one around them. The dangers of landing in a BBQ or getting caught while plundering roots from a garden are a part of daily life. Still, Chister's life has been centered in a calm tree. So, when his father is gone for unexplained reasons but still, sends messages, Chister's desire to learn the truth isn't only understandable but means he's stepping into more than he realizes. The mystery keeps the reader glued to the pages, while secrets unfold. At the same time, the author delivers a rich world and characters...and all of that fitting to the lower and mid range of the middle grade age group.

This book also reads in a way (word choice and atmosphere) reminding of the above mentioned books. At first, I wondered if this would be a bit difficult for many readers, but it quickly flows very well, opens up to the fantasy aspect nicely, and lets the reader sink into the world. There are a few vocabulary strengtheners sprinkled in but not so much as to frustrate. Also, there is a quick mention of prayer, here and there, which adds another level off wholesome goodness. I was mostly surprised at how well the author leans into the tension and danger often found in similar animal adventure novels to hook and grab, but still, pulls back enough to keep the dark aspects away. Instead, the novel surprises at the end...surprising but in a good way.

And here she is...

Liza recalls family drives to the mountains to escape the summer heat. Her father was quick to point out wildlife along the way, but Liza wasn’t always quick enough to see it. However, when they arrived at the picnic grounds, the squirrels were there to greet her. To show her gratitude, she promised them she would one day tell their story.